ecoAmerica has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 American Climate Leadership Awards (ACLA) — the nation’s leading recognition program for effective climate action and advocacy. Now in its seventh year, the ACLA offers over $200,000 in cash prizes to honor individuals, youth, and organizations making measurable progress in addressing climate change across the United States.

Since its launch in 2019, ACLA has recognized over 150 leaders, awarded more than $1 million, and reached 100,000+ viewers through broadcasts and digital engagement. The program celebrates both local and national climate leaders who are broadening participation and building public support for climate solutions.

Award Categories and Prizes

General Category

• Open to individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional climate engagement and advocacy.
• Winner: $50,000
• Runner-Up: $25,000
• 8 Finalists: $5,000 each
• 25 Semifinalists: $1,000 each

Youth Category

• Designed for young climate leaders aged 14–24 creating community-based climate solutions.
• Winner: $10,000
• 8 Finalists: $5,000 each

Honor Award

A special recognition for one outstanding national climate leader advancing large-scale solutions and public support.

2026 Awards Timeline

Applications close: January 5, 2026 (5 PM ET)

Semi-finalists announced: January 30, 2026

Finalist submissions due : February 16, 2026 (5 PM ET)

Awards broadcast and winners announced: April 16, 2026

What’s New in 2026

• Expanded eligibility: Open to a wider range of sectors including health, faith, NGOs, community organizations, and small businesses.
• Simplified application: One streamlined process for all applicants.
• Inclusive participation: Recognizing diverse leaders from local to national levels advancing climate engagement.

What remains the same:

ACLA continues to highlight measurable impact, innovative approaches, and replicable success models for community-based and national climate solutions.

Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria

The American Climate Leadership Awards 2026 welcomes submissions from leaders, organizations, and initiatives that have:

• Current or recently completed climate programs (within the past year).
• Demonstrated success in engaging diverse audiences for climate resilience, mitigation, or sustainability.
• Clear objectives, measurable results, and potential for replication in other communities.
• Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of climate experts based on:
• Impact and measurable success
• Replicability and scalability
• Engagement of new audiences
• Innovation in approach or strategy
• Effective storytelling and public outreach

Who Should Apply?

Applications are open to:

• Climate leaders and advocates driving change in local or national contexts
• Youth (ages 14–24) leading impactful school or community initiatives
• Nonprofits and community organizations advancing climate preparedness and advocacy
• Local businesses and social enterprises promoting sustainability and climate engagement

How to Apply or Nominate

Apply: Eligible individuals or organizations can submit their applications online before January 5, 2026 (5 PM ET).

Nominate: Know a leader making a difference? Nominate them and ecoAmerica will invite them to apply.

Finalists, runners-up, and winners will receive national recognition through ecoAmerica’s media channels, highlighting their contributions to climate leadership and community engagement.

ecoAmerica is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building public support and political resolve for climate solutions across America. Through programs like the American Climate Leadership Awards, ecoAmerica empowers leaders, communities, and organizations to inspire climate action and build a sustainable future.

Apply Now

Applications close: January 5, 2026 (5 PM ET)

Apply here: Application

For more information: ecoAmerica

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth